Knockout City Going Free-to-Play Later This Year on PS5, PS4

Knockout City has always been free-to-start, allowing players to enjoy the game up to a certain point before hitting a paywall. However, there was always the feeling the dodgebrawling multiplayer title should just take the free-to-play route. As it turns out, developer Velan Studios agrees, because that's exactly what's happening.

Yes, Knockout City will be totally free-to-play with the start of Season 6 later this year. Season 5, Greatest Hits, is next on the agenda, introducing the usual slew of new cosmetics, modes, and more. However, once that's done, the game's second year will begin in the Spring, and with it comes the transition to free-to-play.

"We’re really excited to bring our game to millions of new players around the world, by removing the price tag entirely," Velan Studios says in a blog post. It also acknowledges that many have spent money purchasing the game up to this new point in the title's existence. In recognition of these fans, anyone who purchases the game before Season 6 starts will be given a Season 6 Loyalty Bundle, containing "exclusive legendary cosmetics, XP boosts, and 2,000 Holobux".

In related news, Velan Studios will be self-publishing Knockout City going forward. The game was initially published under EA Originals, but as Year 2 gets going, duties will be handed over to the developer, giving it full control. "We couldn’t have introduced Knockout City to the world without the incredible support of EA Originals, but now as we switch to free-to-play, the natural next step is for us to take over publishing responsibilities and work even more closely with our community," reads the blog post.

It's a big shift for the game, then, and probably the right move for the long-term. Again, Knockout City always felt like a free-to-play game, and Velan Studios taking the reins means it can focus in on its community even more.

Are you still playing Knockout City on PS5 and PS4? Are you pleased to hear this change in direction? Give us your two cents in the comments section below.